All the way to experience the river of mirrors

Tucked into the Great Sandy National Park, this spot is all about jaw-dropping beauty, fascinating wildlife, and tea-colored, the Noosa Everglades, is one of the only two Everglades systems in the world and one of my favourite places in South East Queensland. Whether you’re paddling through the mirrored waterways, hiking through the ancient forests, or enjoying a riverside BBQ, the Noosa Everglades will leave you in awe.

The River of Mirrors

If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding through water so reflective that you can’t tell where the trees end and the sky begins, welcome to the Noosa Everglades. The amber hue of the Upper Noosa River comes from tannins released by the surrounding vegetation, turning the calm waters into a liquid mirror. It’s like paddling through a perfectly polished surface—and yes, it’s just as magical as it sounds. Get your camera ready; this is Insta gold.

Wild Friends You’ll Meet Along the Way

As you paddle, hike, or occasionally flail (no shame here), you’re bound to encounter some local wildlife. Think kangaroos, wallabies, goannas, and a symphony of bird species—including some cheeky ducks who believe personal space is optional.

Pro Tip: If you hear rustling in the bushes, it’s probably a goanna. They’re mostly shy but can become very bold when it comes to your picnic stash. Keep your snacks secure, or you might find yourself involuntarily sharing your lunch.

How to Explore the Noosa Everglades (Choose Your Own Adventure)

1. Canoes & Kayaks: The Classic Move

Want to channel your inner adventurer? Hire a kayak or canoe from one of the local providers. The calm waters and winding channels make paddling feel like starring in your own nature doco. If you’re planning a multi-day trip to explore campsites, a canoe is your best bet—plenty of space for food, water, and gear. (Bonus: fewer fights over who forgot to pack what!)

2. Paddleboarding: For the Bold (or Questionably Prepared)

If you like your adventures with a side of core strength, try stand-up paddleboarding. For added drama, strap your camping gear to the board, cross your fingers, and paddle to one of the remote campsites.

Word of advice: skip the heroic crossing of Lake Cootharaba from Boreen Point—its open waters and strong currents might send your weekend plans straight to the “well, we tried” pile. Instead, start your SUP journey from Harry’s Hut for a less stressful adventure.

3. Hiking the Trails

There are a number of ways to access the Noosa Everglades on Foot.

Cooloola Wilderness Trail:
Start from Elanda Point and enjoy the beauty along the edges of the Everglades. Heads up, though—a washed-out bridge near Harry’s Hut means you’ll need to swim a short section if you want to reach the Great Sandy patch. Didn’t pack your swimmers? Surprise!
Cooloola Great Walk:
This 102-kilometer trek takes four to six days spanning from Noosa Northshore all the way to Rainbow Beach and and rewards you with views of both the ocean and the river. The trail is mostly exposed, so plan your walk during cooler months unless you’re up for a sun-drenched challenge. Blisters are temporary, but the views? Absolutely worth it.

Camping: Where Memories (and Mosquitoes) Are Made

Want to sleep under the stars? There are plenty of camping spots along the River of Mirrors. Just don’t forget your tent—or your permit. Harry’s Hut, in particular, is like stepping back in time, but with more sunscreen and fewer frills. Getting there involves either a bumpy 4WD trek or a 7-kilometer paddle, so pack light and channel your inner adventurer.

Pro Tip: Make sure you check for snakes before pitching the tent. In my experience while not aggressive but they are most certainly there so keep you eyes open to make sure you don’t bother them.

Fancy an Upgrade?

If the idea of roughing it doesn’t spark joy, opt for something a little more… civilized:

Everglades Eco Safari will whisk you through the wetlands on a river cruise or guided canoe tour. Perfect for when you want the beauty without the effort.
Habitat Noosa is your glamping headquarters, complete with an onsite microbrewery (because kayaking is thirsty work). You’ll feel fancy, even if you’re covered in mosquito bites.

When to Go: Is There a “Perfect” Time?

Honestly, the Everglades are gorgeous year-round. But summer has its perks—long days, vibrant colours, and reflections that’ll make your camera roll happy. Just don’t forget the sunscreen (or you’ll reflect too).

Pro Tips for a Drama-Free Trip

Check Conditions: Stop by the Noosa Northshore info centre for updates on trail closures or flooding. Because nothing ruins a trip like finding out your campsite is now a swimming pool.
Book Early: Campsites fill up faster than your coffee cup in the morning—especially during holidays.
Bring Water: Not all campsites have it, and dehydration is not a good look when remote camping.
Be Snake-Savvy: They’re shy, but it’s their home too. Just don’t go poking around in the bushes.
Pack It Out: As with most remote camping in Queensland, there are no bins, so take all your rubbish with you and help keeping this paradise pristine.

Noosa Everglades